Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)

Brief Diagnostic Guide

In body dysmorphia there is intense preoccupation about perceived defects in one’s appearance that other people do not see as problematic. The person often engages in compulsions such as excessive grooming, mirror-checking, skin picking, and reassurance-seeking. This condition often results in avoidance of social and other situations. People with this problem often undergo plastic surgery and other invasive interventions, without getting any satisfaction. There is often great shame associated with it, fearing being perceived as vain. Hence, many individuals with body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) keep the suffering hidden from others.